Posted by Tina McManus on Jul 12, 2010 in North Shore Places | 0 comments
Nothing says “Sea Coast” quite like a lighthouse, and the North Shore is fortunate to have a variety scattered around the region – some of them easily accessible to the public. Visit the Salem Maritime Park, where you can stroll along Derby Wharf to the Derby Wharf Lighthouse at it’s end. You’ll pass the replica tall ship, “Friendship” on your way. Beverly’s Hospital Point Lighthouse is home to the commander of the U.S. Coast Guard First District. The lighthouse is closed to the public save for a few days a year, but it can be seen by driving to the end of Bayview Avenue. This year, tours will be conducted on August 1, August 2, September 18, and September 26. The Marblehead Lighthouse can be accessed from Chandler Hovey Park on Marblehead Neck. It’s a beautiful spot to relax, take in the views and ocean breezes, and have a picnic. Though Gloucester’s Eastern Point Lighthouse is not open to the public, you are welcome to walk the breakwater where you’ll get excellent views of the light. It’s worth going for the walk along the breakwater alone. Don’t let the “private road” signs deter you, the public is allowed to drive to the lighthouse, where there is parking. The storied Twin Lights of Thacher Island, located off Rockport, can be reached by the Thacher Island launch. Details here. Fort Pickering Lighthouse sits at the entrance to Salem Harbor on Winter Island. The park is open all year, though there is a parking fee in the summer for non-Salem residents. Other lighthouses, such as Annisquam Light and Ten Pound Island Light in Gloucester are best seen by boat Grab your camera and... read more